Federação Internacional of Automobilismo (FIA) announced the Project Rally One as the first independent constructor to develop a car under the new technical regulations of the tuners on an equal footing with traditional manufacturers. Até At the time, the Toyota was the only one confirmed in the development of a vehicle for this specification.
The new regulations, recently approved, aim to reduce costs and increase participation, with a ceiling of €345,000 per car and power of around 300 horsepower. The announcement took place in December 2025, highlighting the progress already achieved by Project Rally One.
Project origins
The Project Rally One arises from a partnership between experienced motorsport professionals. Lionel Hansen and Yves Matton, who recently collaborated on the development of the Porsche 992 Rally GT homologated this year, have joined forces with the Prospeed to create a competitive car.
This initiative represents the first led by a tuner under the new WRC structure. The FIA emphasizes that the regulations create conditions for independent projects to compete at the highest level.
Technical details of the regulations
The WRC27 cars use a tubular chassis with safety cell, double wishbone suspension and all-wheel drive. Eles incorporate components derived from the Rally2, such as a 1.6-liter turbo engine and five-speed transmission.
The cost limit of €345,000 reduces more than 50% compared to the current Rally1. Power is close to 300 horsepower, with a focus on durability and accessibility to attract more participants.
These changes span a 10-year cycle, providing long-term stability.
- Tubular chassis for greater safety and flexibility.
- Rally2 components for cost control.
- Simplified aerodynamics compared to current Rally1s.
- Mandatory sustainable fuel.
Progress in development
Project Rally One completed the chassis design and construction. The assembly of the prototype is progressing, with the first shakedown scheduled for the European spring of 2026.
The team plans more than 6,000 kilometers of testing on gravel and asphalt before homologation. Pelo minus 10 cars must be produced within 24 months of FIA approval.
In the first season, the manufacturer must line up two cars in at least 50% of the races.
Reactions from those involved
Lionel Hansen expressed pride in pioneering the new era of WRC. Ele highlighted that the regulations allow developing a car from scratch and competing on equal terms.
Xavier Mestelan Pinon, technical director of the FIA, stated that the project validates the vision of accessibility. Malcolm Wilson, vice president of the FIA for sport, reinforced that attracting new entrants is essential for the growth of the category.
The WRC promoter sees potential for a deeper grid with a mix of WRC27 and Rally2 cars.
Requirements for approval
The FIA requires the production of at least 10 units ready for customers within 24 months after approval. The manufacturer must market the car and associated components.
In the debut, two cars participate in half the calendar, evolving into a full season in the second year. Pelo least 10 vehicles must be available to race annually.
These rules unify manufacturers and tuners under the term “constructor”.
Vision for the future of the category
WRC27 regulations allow cars of the new specification to compete alongside Rally2 in the main category in 2027. The FIA will adjust weights to ensure performance parity.
Visual concepts released show varied body options on the tubular chassis. The simpler aerodynamics differentiate it from the current Rally1.
Toyota remains the only traditional manufacturer confirmed in parallel development.
Expectations for participation
The entry of Project Rally One signals growing interest from tuners in the new rules. The FIA has previously indicated that at least two independent projects collaborate closely.
Other potential entrants may emerge in the coming months. The focus on controlled costs and flexibility aims to diversify the grid.
The main category will have a mix of scalable vehicles, including hatches, SUVs or bespoke designs.
Campeonato Mundial of Rally begins a transition phase with 2027 regulations designed for sustainability and greater competitiveness. The Project Rally One positions itself as a reference for independent tuners, while the Toyota represents established manufacturers. Essa structure promises more varied and accessible grids, with initial tests scheduled for 2026 and full debut in 2027.
